Up until World War I molasses was the primary sweetener used in America. In this country we call it molasses but our cousins in the United Kingdom know it as "treacle". Molasses is a natural sweetener that comes from mature sugar cane that has been dried in the sun. It's an excellent substitute for highly refined sugar. When we received our first sample of granulated Blackstrap molasses I instantly knew that it would be a hit in several new barbecue and grill blends. Perfect for adding that signature crust that helps lock in flavor and moisture that all great grill rubs have.Different Types of MolassesMolasses is derived from the left over liquid that comes from extracting the sugar from boiled sugar cane. The first boiling produces what is called light molasses, the second boiling produces dark molasses. The third boiling delivers what is known as Blackstrap molasses. Unlike most sugarcane sweeteners, Blackstrap molasses possesses substantial amounts of vitamins and minerals. Blackstrap molasses contains significant amounts of calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron. Imported vs Domestic MolassesImported Molasses is recognized with a light color and a subtle flavor. Because it still contains all of the original sugar cane it's typically sweeter than other Molasses grades. Our granulated molasses is a domestic sourced product from New Orleans. The difference in flavor between New Orleans and Imported Molasses is the result of the domestic cane's shorter ripening time. Because Blackstrap molasses goes through three boilings there's no further crystalline sugar that can be economically extracted. Our domestic granulated molasses has the most flavor and lowest sugar profile possible of any molasses. This is 100% pure black strap molasses and contains no fillers, additives, colorings or flavorings.Flavor ProfileBlackstrap molasses has a very robust flavor and is somewhat bitter. It adds natural color and distinctive caramel molasses tones to recipes. Molasses' flavor works well in both savory and sweet dishes.When and Where to UseGranulated Blackstrap Molasses enhances sweet and savory flavors and pairs well with apples, beans, barbecue sauce, bran muffins, caramels, chili, chocolate, coffee, frosted cakes, gingerbread, licorice, marinades, quick breads, tomatoes and walnuts. It can also add quite a bit of nuanced flavor to baked goods, oatmeal and spice rubs. Helpful HintsBecause of its strong flavor we recommend experimenting with smaller amounts of granulated molasses as a substitute for some of the called for sugar in a recipe (and not as a complete replacement). Once you've used it in a spice blend or recipe once or twice you can adjust the amount you use going forward. We generally recommend that if using this as a replace for liquid molasses you use a 1:1 ratio. Because of the drying process used our granulated molasses is very flavorful. You should experiment to get the ideal ratio for your application as you may find a bit more or a bit less is needed.We also carry Vermont Maple Sugar and Demerara Sugar, a pure, raw sugar.
